Xrays

 No one knows the long-term effects of ultrasound use. Many practitioners feel that the technology is perfectly safe since studies of babies and their mothers have not determined any effects. Other practitioners are not so convinced of ultrasound safety and feel that judicious use is advised. Keep in mind that x-rays were in use for fifty years before the general public became aware of their negative effects. DES and thalidomide were initially thought to be safe, but it was later discovered that they were the root of cancer, sterility, and anomalies. The greatest risk of using ultrasound technology too much is that if an ultrasound raises a question about the health of the fetus, invasive and high-risk procedures and technologies may be used, which do carry obvious risks for the mother or her child. STUDIES Non-diagnostic ultrasound has demonstrated b8iological effects such as cell heating or thermal effects and cavitational activities using plants and animals. It is difficult to compare the results of these experiments to those of humans because they have produced diverse outcomes. Also, diagnostic ultrasound uses far lower intensities. The current epidemiologic data finds no adverse outcomes from ultrasound use. Many researchers believe that the benefits of diagnostic ultrasound outweigh the risks. Human studies have not documented negative outcomes except for one study which shoed increased fetal activity for the majority of exposed babies when scanned with the Doppler. Using technology too much Some consumer groups have questioned the need for ultrasound equipment in doctor offices. They claim that in order to pay for the equipment, physicians will order unnecessary ultrasounds. Not only does this increase the exposure of unnecessary technology, but it also raises the total cost of care and may lead to additional unnecessary and costly interventions. They claim that in order to pay for the equipment, physicians will order unnecessary ultrasounds. Not only does this increase the exposure of unnecessary technology, but it also raises the total cost of care and may lead to additional unnecessary and costly interventions.